Eric Dietz

Media Release

Police have identified a swimmer who was reported missing while swimming at a popular Puna beach.

Eric T. Dietz, 29, who has no permanent address, was last seen in the waters off Kehena Beach in Lower Puna shortly before 2:40 p.m. Sunday (January 6). He apparently was experiencing difficulties in returning to shore amid the rough ocean conditions. A body boarder managed to get within reach of Dietz but then lost sight of him after he himself was caught in the rough surf before returning to shore safely.

Dietz is also known as “Eroz” and “Arrows.” He is described as Caucasian, about 5-foot-11, about 150 pounds with hazel eyes, brown hair and facial hair. He also has a multi-colored tattoo on his upper right arm that depicts a bird, a spider and a tortoise shell.

Police ask that anyone with information on this case or who knows his whereabouts call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311 or Detective Joel Field at 961-2381. Detective Field may also be reached by email at jfield@co.hawaii.hi.us.

Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. Crime Stoppers is a volunteer program run by ordinary citizens who want to keep their community safe. Crime Stoppers doesn’t record calls or subscribe to caller ID. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.